Old Fashioned Beef Stew

This Old Fashioned Beef Stew is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy dinners and gatherings. It features tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a blend of flavorful herbs and spices that make every bite satisfying. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a family get-together, this stew warms the heart and delights the palate with its rich and robust flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, you can whip up this delicious stew without any hassle.
• Flavorful and Hearty: The combination of beef broth, vegetables, and spices creates a rich taste that everyone will love.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time; it stores well in the fridge for easy reheating throughout the week.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies or adjust the spices to suit your taste preferences.
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion, this stew fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gathering the right tools is essential. Here’s what you need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast-iron Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast-iron Dutch oven: This pot provides even heat distribution, ensuring your stew cooks perfectly without burning.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the best flavor balance in your stew.

Ingredients

This Beef Stew is pure comfort in a bowl with melt-in-your-mouth chunks of beef, hearty vegetables, and all the right herbs and spices.

For the Beef Stew Base

• 2 pounds beef stew meat (cubed chuck roast)
• 4 tablespoons cornstarch (divided)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 4 cups beef broth

For the Vegetables

• 1 1/2 pounds red potatoes (cut into bite-sized chunks)
• 10 ounces pearl onions
• 4 medium carrots (sliced)
• 4 medium celery ribs (sliced)

For Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/4 cup cold water

How to Make Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Dust 2 pounds of beef stew meat with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. Season with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Meat

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned beef and sear for about 5 minutes until browned on all sides. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Add Aromatics

Stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic and 2 tablespoons of tomato paste. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pot

Pour in 4 cups of beef broth along with 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce to deglaze the pan. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Add diced potatoes, pearl onions, sliced carrots, and sliced celery. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon dried basil, 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, and 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice. Stir to combine all ingredients well.

Step 5: Simmer the Stew

Bring the stew to a boil over high heat. Then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 90 to 120 minutes, stirring occasionally until the beef is tender.

Step 6: Thicken the Stew

In a small bowl, mix remaining 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 1/4 cup cold water until dissolved. Slowly pour this mixture into the stew while stirring constantly. Cook on low heat for a few more minutes until thickened.

Step 7: Final Seasoning & Serve

Taste your stew and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if necessary. Serve hot for an enjoyable meal!

How to Serve Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Serving Old Fashioned Beef Stew is all about creating a comforting and inviting meal experience. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this hearty dish.

Classic Presentation

• Serve the stew in deep bowls for a rustic look that showcases the vibrant colors of the vegetables and tender beef.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair your stew with warm, crusty bread or rolls to soak up every drop of the delicious broth.

Over Rice or Mashed Potatoes

• Spoon the beef stew over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal that adds extra texture.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle fresh parsley or thyme on top just before serving to enhance flavor and add a pop of color.

Accompanied by a Salad

• A light side salad with mixed greens can balance the richness of the stew, providing a fresh contrast to each bite.

How to Perfect Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Perfecting your Old Fashioned Beef Stew takes a bit of technique and care. Here are some tips to enhance this classic recipe.

• Choose Quality Meat: Use well-marbled beef chuck for tender chunks that break apart beautifully during cooking.
• Sear the Meat Properly: Don’t rush the searing process; browning the meat develops deep flavors in your stew.
• Layer the Flavors: Incorporate ingredients gradually, starting with aromatics like garlic and onion, then adding liquids and veggies for depth.
• Control Cooking Time: Simmer low and slow for at least 90 minutes to ensure the beef becomes fork-tender.
• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your stew before serving; adjust salt and pepper as needed for optimal flavor.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the stew to sit off heat for 30 minutes enhances the flavors even more before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Pairing side dishes with your Old Fashioned Beef Stew can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: Toast slices of bread with butter and minced garlic for a crunchy, flavorful side that complements the stew perfectly.
2. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides freshness and texture, balancing out the rich flavors of the stew.
3. Green Beans Almondine: Sauté green beans with almonds for a nutty side that adds both flavor and nutrition.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts offer a slightly sweet contrast, enhancing the overall meal experience.
5. Mashed Cauliflower: For a lighter alternative to mashed potatoes, try creamy mashed cauliflower seasoned with garlic and herbs.
6. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins make an excellent accompaniment, perfect for soaking up any leftover broth from your bowl.
7. Baked Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes pairs wonderfully with savory beef stew flavors.
8. Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with vinaigrette provides freshness that cuts through the richness of the stew, making it more balanced.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Old Fashioned Beef Stew can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Bold seasoning: Skipping proper seasoning can lead to a bland stew. Always season your beef and broth adequately.
• Overcrowding the pot: Adding too much meat or vegetables at once prevents proper searing. Cook in batches if necessary for the best flavor.
• Ignoring simmer time: Rushing the cooking process can result in tough meat. Allow at least 90 minutes for the beef to become tender.
• Not thickening properly: Forgetting to add cornstarch mixture at the end can leave your stew soupy. Stir it in slowly while cooking on low heat.
• Neglecting vegetable sizes: Cutting vegetables too large can mean uneven cooking. Aim for uniform-sized pieces for even tenderness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Old Fashioned Beef Stew in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Old Fashioned Beef Stew

• Portion out the stew into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Old Fashioned Beef Stew

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on high in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making Old Fashioned Beef Stew.

How do I make my Old Fashioned Beef Stew richer?

To enhance richness, consider using a higher-quality beef broth and adding more herbs or spices during cooking.

Can I use different vegetables in my Old Fashioned Beef Stew?

Yes! Feel free to customize with seasonal vegetables like peas or green beans for added flavor and nutrition.

How long does it take to cook Old Fashioned Beef Stew?

The total cooking time is typically around 2 hours, which includes simmering until the beef is tender.

What can I serve with Old Fashioned Beef Stew?

Serve with crusty bread, rice, or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious broth.

Final Thoughts

Old Fashioned Beef Stew is a hearty meal that offers warmth and comfort on chilly days. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preference or seasonal availability. Try this delightful recipe soon!

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Old Fashioned Beef Stew

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Indulge in the warmth of Old Fashioned Beef Stew, a heartwarming dish that brings comfort to any meal. This classic recipe features tender chunks of beef simmered to perfection with hearty vegetables like red potatoes, carrots, and pearl onions. Infused with a medley of aromatic herbs and spices, every spoonful is packed with rich flavors that will delight your taste buds. Perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, this stew not only nourishes the soul but also serves as a versatile canvas to customize with your favorite veggies or seasonings. Easy to prepare and ideal for meal prepping, Old Fashioned Beef Stew is sure to become a cherished staple in your kitchen.

• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 pounds beef stew meat (cubed chuck roast)
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 ½ pounds red potatoes (cut into chunks)
• 10 ounces pearl onions
• 4 medium carrots (sliced)
• 4 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/4 cup cold water

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Instructions

1. Dust the beef stew meat with cornstarch and season with salt and pepper.
2. In a Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the beef until browned on all sides.
3. Add minced garlic and tomato paste; cook until fragrant.
4. Pour in beef broth, then add the potatoes, onions, carrots, sugar, and herbs/spices. Stir well.
5. Bring to boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 90–120 minutes until beef is tender.
6. Thicken the stew by mixing remaining cornstarch with cold water and stirring it into the pot; cook until thickened.
7. Adjust seasoning if needed before serving hot.

• Author: Diary
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 120 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 300g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 75mg